Beauty in everything

Flower language

Flower language. Coltsfoot, widely spread early spring flower, also known as ‘Mother-and-Stepmother’ in Russian folklore

Flower language. How would you tell someone “I love you” or “You are special” – you could write a poem or compose a song – or you could give flowers! For thousands of years, people around the world have given special meanings to beautiful flowers and plants. Flower language reached height of popularity during the reign of Queen Victoria in Britain. Dictionaries were written to explain each flower meaning. Here are just a few examples.

Yellow wildflowers

A primrose means “I can’t live without you”.
An iris means “Your friendship means so much to me”.
A pansy means “I am thinking about you”.
A lilac blossom can mean either “love at first sight” or the romance is over”. If two lovers use different dictionaries, there can be some real misunderstandings.

Colors of petals

Colors too, were very important.
A white lily, for example, means “It’s heavenly to be with you”.
An orange lily means “I hate you”.
A pink carnation means “I will never forget you”.
A yellow carnation means “You’ve disappointed me”.

Purple Flowers

Even the way the flowers were given had meaning. A person could say “yes” by giving a flower with the right hand. A flower given with the left hand meant “no”.

Red carnation Flowers

Besides, giving single flowers, the Victorians liked to make up bouquets. Deciphering the secret message was a popular pastime.